La Trobe University experts also have some advice for those who are unsure about what to do next on their education journey.
Education Professor Charlotte Forwood has been a teacher for more than 30 years and was previously a VCAA assessor.
She encouraged students to select a course that matches their skill set and interests, and not to focus on their ATAR.
Some Year 12s may not know what to do after finishing their secondary studies.Credit: JoeArmao
“Each year, there are students who receive an ATAR which exceeds their initial expectations. This may open new opportunities for further study; however, it is also important that students don’t feel pressured to ‘bank’ their ATAR and choose a course based on its high entry score,” she said.
She pointed out continuing to tertiary education was a big commitment in terms of time and money. There were also many young people who finished Year 12 without a clear sense of what to do next.
Here’s her advice:
Rather than committing to a HECS debt in a course that they are unsure about, students should seriously consider taking a gap year, where they can explore different opportunities, earn some money, perhaps engage with their communities and develop independence. They might find their area of interest along the way without incurring a large and long-term debt.”
“Whatever decision students make, it should reflect their aspirations for their future beyond school.”
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